From Passion to Profit: Turn Your Hobby into a Business 4th Annual Summit

You're invited to the fourth annual "From Passion to Profit: Turn Your Hobby into a Business" summit organized by the RI Department of State.

Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore and the RI Department of State invite you to take part in the fourth annual "From Passion to Profit: Turn Your Hobby into a Business" series. This two-part virtual event will cover important considerations when taking the leap to turn your passion project into a small business. Join us to learn about navigating business registration, corporate and sales taxes, and accurately pricing your product. You’ll also hear from several local business owners who will share their journey in transforming their hobby into a small business. Both sessions will be recorded and made available to all registered attendees.

Session 1: Saturday, February 25 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Make the big leap: Learn from someone who’s been there before

In this session, you’ll hear from local entrepreneurs who have successfully made the transition from passion to business. Learn from their experiences: which strategies worked and which ones didn’t? What resources did they rely on and what do they wish they had known when they were just starting out?

This session will also explore ways to generate demand for your product – and how to meet the demand you create! Join us to learn how to ensure your product is competitively priced in the marketplace and how to scale your product effectively.

Session 2: Saturday, March 4 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Make it official: Learn how to navigate business registration and taxes

This session covers basic business considerations for all new businesses, including registration and maintenance requirements, as well as a comprehensive overview of free business support resources. We will also explore the nuts and bolts of taxes in RI, including corporate and sales taxes, art exemptions, craft fair sales, and tax filing requirements.

Please register for each session you are attending. Both sessions will be recorded and made available to attendees. If you have questions, please contact the Business Services Division at biztraining@sos.ri.gov.